Manchester Road Bridge

A 140 km steel footbridge with a 65 m ramp. Supported on vertical columns, one of which was a central feature due to forming an illuminated peak above the bridge. The bridge was fabricated in nine sections, with the ramp being fabricated in five sections. Sections were joined using temporary splices initially, which were replaced by welded butt joints during installation.

“Using Advance Steel gave my colleagues and I a means to generate a model and associated detail drawings, of a complex structure which we would not have been able to complete using AutoCAD alone. Particularly to the level of accuracy that was achieved.”– Andrew Pont, Draughtsman, Briton Fabricators Ltd

The Challenge

To create a 3D model enabling provision of rolling sketches, fabrication drawings and detailed listings for this large, complex footbridge with varying levels and compound curves.

The interface between ramp and bridge was a significant challenge. The bridge itself sloped at this point as well as being curved in both orientations. The ramp was to incline up to this point and blend in at an angle (not perpendicular to the bridge.

Programs had to be created.

The Solution

Ability to use AutoCAD to plot co-ordinates allowed creation of main beams by converting polylines into 3D steel beams.

Able to create accurate drawings of required parts.

Progressing the build of a 3D model ensured intricately positioned beams. Connection plates and bots were then added prior to a clash check.